Breathing New Life into the 1978 Z1-R: KAWASAKI Z1-R Custom

• Z1-R

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Webike's Opinion

Here is a "KAWASAKI Z1-R" custom by Webike community user "Fakka". The classic 1978 Z1-R, a model the owner has long admired. Unlike the elegant, curved lines of the previous Z1 models, this one adopts a slim, angular form with sharp edges. True to its "R" name, it embodies the racing-inspired concept, featuring a sleek bikini cowl, and is styled in the café racer fashion that was popular at the time. The owner found this bike in a non-running state at a shop and purchased it as-is. Restoring it took more time than expected, but after four years, the engine finally started. For the owner, who enjoys working on old Japanese bikes, this was the perfect project. Now, it serves as his daily ride in Singapore, where, as seen in the photos, the owner enjoys blissful moments such as gazing at his beloved bike while having breakfast.

The brakes, which the owner says might be a bit too powerful, consist of a SUNSTAR 320mm disc and Brembo calipers. The engine has been carefully modified with products such as an AS Uotani SPII Full Power Kit and JB POWER CR Carburetor. The footpegs are stock Z1000 LTD parts, providing the best fit for the owner. The handlebars are replaced with Z PARTS Z Handlebars, a staple among vintage bike riders. To reduce damage, the handlebars feature resin grip ends, the first of their kind on the market, designed to absorb the force of impact in case of a fall.

The owner plans to keep the appearance as close to the original as possible while optimizing the functionality with current technology. He is also on the lookout for the best tires and wheels for the bike.

Gallery

Specifications

Part	Details
Exhaust	KAWASAKI Stock 4-1 Exhaust KERKER Megaphone Exhaust
Brake	SUNSTAR TRAD TYPE2 Rear Disc Rotor SUNSTAR Neo Classic Front Disc Rotor brembo 40mm Calipers Lockheed CP3369 Caliper Lockheed CP3125 Master Cylinder
Handles	Z PARTS Z Handlebar
Drive Parts	SUNSTAR Front / Rear Sprocket & Chain / Rivet Joint Set
Engine	PAMS Plug Cord Set for SP2 Coil (for Z Series) JB POWER (BITO R&D) CR Carburetor (CR-SPECIAL Carburetor) PAMS FS Metal Head Gasket+Viton Center Seal Ring Set PAMS CG Base Gasket AS Uotani SPII Full Power Kit PAMS Complete Clutch Kit NORRIS 357 CAM Shaft
Oil Cooler	SPEED SHOP ITO Top Inner Turning 9-inch Oil Cooler Kit for Z
Suspension	PMC Preload Adjuster Bitubo Rear Shock PMC Lowering Kit YSS Front Fork Cartridge Emulator
Rearsets	KAWASAKI Steps for KZ1000LTD
Wheels	D.I.D Aluminum Rim F 2.15-18 R 3.0-18 BUCHANAN SUS Spokes Hub for KZ1000A Morris Front Wheel 2.15-19 for KZ900LTD